Eleocharis pusilla

Eleocharis pusilla - The Perfect Mini Dwarf Hairgrass Aquarium Carpet

Eleocharis pusilla, often referred to as Mini Dwarf Hairgrass, is one of the lowest-growing carpeting plants available for aquascaping. It forms a dense, fine-textured green mat and stays shorter than Eleocharis acicularis, making it ideal for nano tanks, foreground planting, and high-contrast Iwagumi layouts.

Best results are achieved with medium to high lighting and CO₂ injection, which promote compact, horizontal spreading. In CO₂-rich tanks, E. pusilla will stay below 3 cm tall and create a lawn-like foreground that enhances depth and structure.

Unlike taller carpeting plants, this variety creates a cleaner visual line in the layout and requires regular trimming to prevent overgrowth. It propagates through runners and should be planted in small tufts spaced 2–3 cm apart.

Ideal for high-tech aquascapes, and Nature-style tanks, especially where a minimalist foreground is desired.

Key Features of Eleocharis pusilla:

• Short Aquarium Carpet Plant: Stays low, forming dense, delicate carpets perfect for foreground planting.
• Cool Water Preference: Thrives in temperatures below 25 °C for optimal growth.
• Iwagumi aquarium foreground plant: Ideal for Iwagumi layouts or natural-style aquariums.
• Beginner-Friendly Aquarium Plant: Easy to care for with minimal requirements.
• Native Beauty: A species native to the unique wetlands of Australia and New Zealand.

Tips for Success: Use a nutrient-rich substrate and CO2 supplementation for faster, denser growth. Regular trimming helps maintain a tidy, compact appearance.

Why Choose Eleocharis pusilla?
Compact, elegant, and easy to care for, Eleocharis pusilla is an aquascaping essential. Its vibrant green tones and low-growing habit make it a versatile plant for creating intricate, natural landscapes in aquariums of any size.